Lee Cemetery
Historical marker location:Herbert J. Lee of Virginia moved to this area by 1859. One-year-old Georgiannia W. Derrick died in 1860 and was buried on the Lee property. Herbert Lee designated the land for a cemetery in his 1865 will. At some time after May 1908, two stones were erected bearing the names of George W. and William B. Derrick, who died in 1831.
Whether or not the two pioneers are interred on this site remains unknow. Most graves are dated between 1870 and 1890. Money was tight during the Reconstruction era, which may explain the lack of ornate stones. An underground vault in the center of the graveyard filled with dirt and the markers within the vault deteriorated. At least one grave on this site it that of a citizen of The Republic of Texas. Others were veterans of the Civil War. The last burial took place in 1913. (2000)
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
The county was established in 1841 and named after Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas. In the mid-19th century, Lamar County became a center for farming and agriculture, with cotton and corn being the primary crops. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the local economy.
During the American Civil War, Lamar County played a significant role. Many residents joined the Confederate Army, and the county became a key supplier of agricultural goods and troops to the Confederacy. After the war, the economy faced challenges and began diversifying into other industries such as timber and manufacturing.
In the 20th century, Lamar County experienced periods of growth and change. The discovery of oil in nearby counties led to increased economic development, and the county became a hub for the petroleum industry. Today, Lamar County continues to thrive with a strong agricultural base, as well as industries such as healthcare, education, and manufacturing, making it an important part of Texas' history and economy.
Lamar County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lamar County, Texas.
- 1840: Lamar County founded and named after Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, the second President of the Republic of Texas
- 1841: First settlement established in the county
- 1843: County seat designated as Lafayette, later renamed Paris in 1844
- 1850: Population of the county reaches 3,064
- 1855: Paris becomes an incorporated town
- 1861: Lamar County supports secession and joins the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War
- 1877: The Texas and Pacific Railway reaches Paris, boosting the local economy and population growth
- 1878: A devastating fire destroys much of downtown Paris
- 1888: Paris becomes an independent school district
- 1893: The Sam Bell Maxey House, now a museum, is built in Paris
- 1922: Paris Junior College is established
- 1957: Construction begins on the Pat Mayse Lake, providing recreational opportunities for residents
- 1985: The county courthouse in Paris is added to the National Register of Historic Places
- 2010: The population of Lamar County reaches 49,793